The Big Guns

As expected, the Heller decision was announced today and, as expected it was ground-breaking, history making and everything in between. The DC handgun was struck down and the court declared for the first time EVER that individuals have a constitutional right to bear arms. The 5-4 vote also opens the doors for the NRA to challenge any number of gun restrictions- which they've already signalled they intend to do.

What it boils down to is this: if you're pro-gun, this is the best day EVER. If you're not pro-gun, this isn't your day. I myself have come a long way on guns- I think they're necessary for the defense of a free society. An armed citizenry being less likely to be screwed with by a government or so the theory goes. I tend to think, however, that some small sensible restrictions are necessary. The Gun Show Loophole is some major bullshit and I think you should be 18 and have to wait 5 days before you get a gun. They make you jump through all kinds of hoops to drive a car in this country, so why not to get a gun? Makes sense to me.

The aftermath has already begun- some legal analysis here and here, round-ups and reactions here, and here.